For those who enjoy a travel experience with a supernatural twist, ghost tours, vampire trails, and haunted castles are becoming increasingly popular options. These destinations offer more than just a scenic holiday—they provide immersive encounters with history and folklore that appeal to the thrill-seeking traveller. With data-backed insights from experts like Audley Travel, these chilling destinations provide unique ways to explore fascinating cultures and historic locations, all while keeping an eye out for things that go bump in the night.
From the bustling streets of historic towns in the United States to the haunted halls of medieval castles in Japan, travellers can find a wide range of haunted attractions worldwide. Here’s a guide to some of the top locations known for their ghostly presence, eerie charm, and chilling lore.
Top Ghost Tour Destinations
The United States leads the pack when it comes to ghost tours, making it an ideal destination for those seeking eerie getaways. According to data from Audley Travel, the USA has over 700 ghost and vampire-themed tours, with cities like Salem, Massachusetts, and New Orleans, Louisiana, ranking as favourites among enthusiasts. Salem, famous for its witch trials of the 1690s, offers tours that delve into its haunted history, complete with eerie stories about the town’s tragic past. New Orleans, meanwhile, is celebrated for its ghostly lore and vampire stories, which are deeply rooted in the city’s history.
“Everything is bigger in the USA, and that includes the thrills and scares,” says Monty Bampfield, a USA specialist at Audley Travel. “Americans embrace all things Halloween and horror-related, so it’s no surprise that you can find ghost tours and vampire tours across the country.” For travellers looking to start their journey with a classic ghost experience, Bampfield recommends the supernatural trolley tour of Boston. As one of the oldest cities in the country, Boston offers a rich setting for ghost tours, with stops at historic graveyards and narrow cobblestone streets that make for a perfect ghost-hunting adventure. You can contact Audley Travel for more information on eerie getaway destinations, to find you the one that suits your needs. Below are more examples of such locations.
Vampire Trails Across the Globe
For those drawn to vampire lore, there are travel destinations that bring the chilling tales of vampires to life. One of the most iconic spots for this is Transylvania, Romania, often associated with the Dracula legend. Here, visitors can explore sites connected to Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure who inspired Bram Stoker’s classic tale of Dracula. Tours in Transylvania lead guests through atmospheric forests and historic buildings, providing an immersive look into the region’s dark history.
Vampire lore isn’t just confined to Europe. In the USA, New Orleans also has a strong connection to vampire tales, with stories of mysterious disappearances and sightings that have captivated visitors for decades. Many tours in the city explore this theme, guiding guests through dark alleyways and historical sites with a focus on local legends.
Historic Haunted Castles
For those fascinated by haunted castles, several destinations around the world offer a journey into history combined with an eerie atmosphere. Japan, with its centuries-old architectural traditions, ranks among the top destinations for castle enthusiasts. Known for its distinctive wooden castles built on stone foundations, Japan’s fortresses were designed to withstand earthquakes, giving them a unique architectural appeal. According to Audley Travel data, Japan ranks third globally for the number of castles, boasting 264 historic sites that attract visitors year-round.
One of Japan’s most immersive experiences is an overnight stay at Ozu Castle, the first fully restored wooden castle where guests can spend the night. Visitors are greeted with 17th-century rituals, taiko drum performances, and the option to wear traditional armour or kimonos, fully immersing them in the castle’s historical ambiance. David Peat, a Regional Product Manager at Audley, explains, “The Japan archipelago has seen a lot of strife in its history. As a result, you’ll find a lot of defensive architecture.” This insight into Japan’s unique approach to castle design makes it a fascinating choice for those looking for a historically rich, atmospheric stay.
